At last week’s Opening Day Convocation for BCC employees, JD Smith was honored with not one, but two of the college’s highest recognitions: the 2025 Teaching Excellence Award and the 2025 Dr. W. Michael Reaves Service Award. Surprised and humbled, JD accepted both with the quiet grace that reflects who he is as a leader, mentor, and educator. Those who know him best agree—he is more than deserving of both.

Since joining ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï in 2009, JD Smith has set the standard for integrity, leadership, and student success within the Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) Program. Over the years, he has served as an instructor, then Assistant Director under his mentor Obbie M. Blanton III, and now leads the program as Director. Behind his steady presence in the classroom and field training is a story shaped by mentorship, resilience, and a commitment to serving others.

A Career of Service and Mentorship
JD began his career in law enforcement in 1999 with the Wilmington Police Department (WPD), where he met his lifelong mentor, the late Obbie M. Blanton III. “Obbie looked out for me throughout my entire career, and I believe he still does today,” JD recalls. “I often ask myself what I did to be lucky enough to have him as a mentor and friend?”

At WPD, JD worked in accident reconstruction, taught specialty driving and hazmat courses, and even taught a BLET night class at BCC. It was Obbie who urged JD to step into teaching—a decision that would eventually shape JD’s path and the futures of countless cadets.

A Life-Changing Challenge
In 2013, a car accident cut short JD’s career on the streets. He sustained serious injuries in an on-duty car accident, breaking his neck in three places. He spent four-and-a-half months learning to walk again. That experience could have ended his service. Instead, it began a new chapter as he broadened his role in BCC’s BLET program.

Leading with Integrity and Respect
JD’s leadership is rooted in honesty, accountability, and fairness. Known as direct and stern—but always fair—he sets clear expectations while treating students, colleagues, and law enforcement partners with respect and dignity. His example models the kind of integrity and professionalism that are essential for future officers.

Building Community and Paying It Forward
JD believes in his students as Obbie once believed in him. Many face challenges such as homelessness, hunger, or personal loss that threaten to derail their training. Students trust him with their struggles, and JD quietly steps in—often at his own expense—to ensure they have the support they need to succeed. Graduates frequently return to BCC’s Leland Center to thank him, seek advice, or visit, a testament to the difference he has made in their lives.

Creating Opportunity and Excellence
Through his teaching and mentorship, JD empowers students to reach their highest potential, both personally and professionally. His commitment to rigorous, high-quality education prepares them not just for meaningful careers in law enforcement but for lives of service in their communities.

Beyond the Badge
When he’s not mentoring future officers, JD loves spending time at the bowling alley. His love for the sport started in college when he signed up for Bowling as an elective. What he thought might be an “easy A” quickly turned into a lifelong passion. Over the years, his dedication to the sport even took him to the National Bowling Championship. Whether on the lanes or in the classroom, JD approaches challenges with the same mix of discipline, perseverance, and good humor.

A Lasting Legacy
JD’s story of service and resilience makes it clear why he is so deserving of the honors he received at this year’s convocation. Our future law enforcement officers are in the best of hands.

August 2025

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ÍøÆسԹϒs Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) Class 73 — the Spring 2025 Day Class — has made history. As BCC’s first to train under North Carolina’s newly expanded 874-hour curriculum, the class not only met the challenge but exceeded expectations by achieving a 100% pass rate on the rigorous North Carolina Training & Standards State Exam.

The four-hour, 300-question exam is a major milestone for aspiring officers across the state. BCC’s success reflects the extraordinary commitment of both the students and the instructors. “We could not be more proud of our students on this accomplishment,” said BLET Program Director J.D. Smith. “Our instructors outdid themselves to be sure our students were more than ready for the challenge.”

Graduation for this class will take place on July 15 at 1 PM at Odell Williamson Auditorium, where we will recognize students in front of family, friends, law enforcement professionals, and the BCC community.

BCC’s BLET program equips students with essential skills for entry-level employment in law enforcement, covering topics such as patrol procedures, criminal law, ethics, community relations, and more. Students must pass all units of study mandated by the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission and the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Education and Training Standards Commission to earn their certificate.

With this milestone, Class 73 sets a powerful example of what excellence and preparation can achieve.

July 2025

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Fourteen individuals representing law enforcement agencies across the region were recognized on May 6, 2025, as they graduated from ÍøÆسԹÏ’s Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) Class 72. Held at the Odell Williamson Auditorium, the ceremony honored their completion of 640 hours of intensive training designed to prepare them for the demands of public service and community protection.

BCC President Gene Smith addressed the graduates, praising their courage and commitment: “It takes courage and passion to help others when one becomes a law enforcement officer. Each of our graduates has that desire to safeguard lives and property, to protect the innocent from harm, and to keep order,” he said.  “I’m very thankful that each of you has chosen to serve our community and for obtaining your education and training at ÍøÆسԹÏ.â€�

Family, friends, and colleagues joined in celebrating the graduates, who were supported by their Sponsoring Agencies:

• Karuna Albright – Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office
• William Barnett – Shallotte Police Department
• Nicholas Barone – Sunset Beach Police Department
• Timothy Caulder – Shallotte Police Department
• Robert Cruse – NC State Ports Authority Police
• Jason Evans – Sunset Beach Police Department
• Bree Harrison – Boiling Spring Lakes Police Department
• Alex Justice – Leland Police Department
• Jaden Monzon – Pender County Sheriff’s Office
• Nicholas Pagliolo – Southport Police Department
• Brandon Poirier – Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office
• Zander Skiff – Holden Beach Police Department
• Michael Treude – Sunset Beach Police Department
• Warren Logan – Leland Police Department

The ceremony featured remarks from Dean of Professional & Technical Programs Eric Holloman, BLET Director James D. Smith, Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office Major Sammy Turner (Guest Speaker), Class President Timothy Caulder, and BLET Qualified Assistant Major Tony Burke.

We extend our deepest congratulations to Class 72 as they embark on their journey to serve, protect, and make a difference.

For event photos, please visit the .

May 6, 2025

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ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï (BCC) is proud to recognize Demetrius Greene as Student of the Month! Demetrius, a student in our , has demonstrated outstanding perseverance, dedication, and leadership throughout his journey at BCC.

Demetrius successfully earned his ³Ò·¡¶Ù® in January 2024—a testament to his resilience and commitment to personal growth. Keeping true to his promise, he enrolled in the BLET program, where he has continued to excel.

Nominated by Cindy Sterling, Executive Assistant to the President, Demetrius was praised for his steadfast determination and willingness to support others. Not only has he passed all his exams to date, but his leadership skills have also been recognized as he was selected class leader. Beyond his own success, Demetrius actively assists his peers, particularly in Physical Training, demonstrating his commitment to teamwork and excellence.

Congratulations, Demetrius! Your hard work and dedication exemplify the spirit of BCC. We can’t wait to see where your journey takes you next!

To learn more about BLET at BCC, .

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It was an exciting and emotional Friday evening as BCC celebrated the 68th Graduating Class of its Basic Law Enforcement Training program. Known for their perseverance, these students (and instructors) overcame every challenge that came their way and graduated 15 strong. The ceremony opened with a welcome from Dean of Professional & Technical Programs Eric Holloman, followed by remarks from Assistant Director of BLET James D. Smith and BCC President Dr. Gene Smith. Graduates heard from guest speaker John M. King, NC Highway Patrol (Ret), BLET Director Lt. Obbie Blanton, and Class President Matthew W. Tweedie. Rev. Anthony Clemmons closed the ceremony with a Benediction. Congratulations to all graduates and award recipients. We are incredibly proud of grateful to you. The next BLET class begins in August. For information, contact onestop@brunswickcc.edu.

April 27, 2023

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October 6, 2022 — Area law enforcement is seven outstanding officers stronger as ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï (BCC) graduated the 67th Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) class. The ceremony took place at Odell Williamson Auditorium and was attended by students, family, friends, instructors, BCC leadership, and representatives from area law enforcement departments.

Graduates and their sponsors include Kayce Leigh Burris, Sunset Beach Police Department, Christopher Leroy Cain, Leland Police Department, Virginia Lynn Caton, Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office, Kevin Matthew Doherty, Southport Police Department, Chad Allen Pruitt, Sunset Beach Police Department, Vincent Paul Rivera, New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, and Kevin Patrick White, Leland Police Department.

Eric Holloman, Dean of Professional & Technical Programs, Lt. Obbie Blanton, BLET Director, James D. Smith, BLET Assistant Director, and BCC President Gene Smith presented the certificates and awards.

Awards included the following:

• Perfect Attendance, Christopher L. Cain and Vincent P. Rivera
• School Director’s Award: Christopher L. Cain
• Highest Academic Average: Kevin P. White
• High State Exam Average: Kayce L. Burris
• Physical Fitness Leadership Award, Christopher L. Cain
• Top Driver’s Award, Kevin P. White
• Top Firearms Award, Vincent P. Rivera
• Class Leadership Award, Kayce L. Burris and Kevin P. White

The Susan B. Johnson Instructor Recognition Award was presented to Deputy Clarissa R. Reece of the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office.

We are incredibly proud of and grateful for these officers and their dedication to serving our communities. Congratulations!

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